Georgetown, Guyana – (November 17, 2015) Minister of Governance, with responsibility for Natural Resources and the Environment, Raphael Trotman commends the successful effort led by the North Rupununi communities and Iwokrama International Centre to rescue a group of endangered Arapaima fishes, during this last week.
The rescue clearly underscores the strength of multi-stakeholder collaboration in conserving our endangered species and effecting positive change.
The Arapaima, the world’s largest fresh water fish, is found mainly in Guyana, Brazil and Peru and is noted under the Convention on International Trade of Endangered Species (CITES) in Appendix 2, which controls the trade of this specie to ensure that they are utilised in a manner that ensures their survival.
Communities’ recognition of the importance and value of protecting the animal and plant species within their environment, particularly those of national importance and those that are endangered, is necessary for the wholesome management and protection of the environment on which we depend.
The Minister Congratulates the communities involved on their proactive response in this most recent rescue effort.
The Department wishes to implore residents living in drought prone areas to be on the lookout for animals in distress and render assistance where possible.
Citizens can also call the Wildlife Management Division on telephone number 223-0940 or the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment on telephone numbers 231 2506-11 to report any such situations.
